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Bible Readings: Ephesians 4:7-13; Psalm 19:1-6

The heavens declare the glory of God;
    the skies proclaim the work of his hands.     Psalm 19:1

11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.     Ephesians 4:11-13

 

What does your life declare about God?  That is a sobering question.  But it is also somewhat incomplete.  What our lives say about God is one part of a bigger picture that God is painting.  Our Psalmist describes how all creation, the heavenly bodies, declare the beauty of God.  How much more should we, the “body of Christ”, the ones being filled “to the measure of all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:19), display his glory? 

As we enjoy the beauty of creation, we are reminded of the endless grace lavished upon us by our Lord Jesus.  Just as the heavens declare God's glory, Christ has given us spiritual gifts, diverse in nature, ranging from apostleship to teaching, yet unified in their purpose—to equip and build up the body of Christ.

Consider the vast diversity in nature!  In the same way, God has intricately designed His body, the Church, with each member uniquely gifted.  Yet, just as creation operates in harmony and order, we too are called to unity in the body of Christ. In our diversity and in our unity, we reflect the glory of God. 

Today, let us marvel at the wonders of creation and the grace of our Lord, who has gifted us abundantly for His divine purposes. May we embrace the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ, recognizing each member's unique contribution to the kingdom. And may we strive for unity in faith and knowledge, journeying together towards the fullness of Christ.

Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your creation and the abundance of Your grace. Thank You for entrusting us with spiritual gifts to serve Your kingdom. Help us to recognize the beauty of diversity within the body of Christ and to work together in unity for Your glory. Guide us by Your Spirit as we strive for maturity and the fullness of Christ. Amen.